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The Education Policy Institute (EPI) is a leading public policy research institute. Since 2016 we’ve produced high quality, authoritative research that has proven both timely and influential to policy-makers, practitioners and the public.
We’re looking to recruit a new Researcher, in our Vulnerable Learners and Post-16 team.
As a Researcher at EPI, you’ll contribute to meaningful, evidence-based work that addresses some of the biggest challenges in education. In this role, you will:
- Conduct impactful research on schools and colleges in England, with a focus on students who face greater barriers in education such as those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, or those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
- Develop your skills in quantitative and statistical analysis using large education datasets.
- Contribute to high-profile reports that are read by senior decision-makers across government, media, and the education profession.
- Support the communication of our findings through blogs, events, roundtables, and conferences.
- Progress towards leading research projects as part of your development.
- Play an active role in shaping and supporting a growing organisation.
About EPI
The Education Policy Institute is an independent, impartial and evidence-based research institute that aims to promote high quality education outcomes for all children and young people, regardless of social background. We’re known for producing research that both informs and influences public debate and policy-making.
We believe that public services should be designed using the best available evidence. Our research aims to improve outcomes throughout the education system, in the early years, in schools and colleges, and through technical, vocational and academic pathways. Because we believe that young people’s wellbeing is crucial to their achievement and outcomes, we also conduct research into mental health and inclusion.
We employ a team of dedicated quantitative researchers from a range of academic backgrounds and communication experts who produce high quality research and ensure that it reaches a wide range of audiences, including the top level of government and the national media.
About the Vulnerable Learners and Post-16 Team
At the age of 16, young people in England face a myriad of pathways, including vocational and technical routes, apprenticeships and A levels. Many students choose to progress to higher education and many adults return to education and training during their working life.
Our aim is to provide an evidence base on issues such as funding, attainment, qualification reform and access to higher education – assessing the extent to which England’s post 16 provision prepares people for life and employment.
The team also leads analysis on the opportunities and outcomes of more vulnerable student groups across the education system, from early years to young adulthood.
We answer questions like:
- How effectively and equitably is post-16 provision in England giving young people the skills and knowledge they need to contribute to the economy and society?
- How is further and higher education provision and access changing and which groups of young people are helped or harmed as a result?
- How have societal events such as the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis affected educational outcomes?
- How has qualification reform changed the provision and accessibility of post 16 education?
The position
We’re looking for a quantitative analyst to join our Vulnerable Learners and Post 16 team.
You will support on delivering the team’s work programme by processing data from a range of sources, analysing it, drafting reports, and monitoring impact. This work will include developing and implementing mathematical models and algorithms for analysing complex datasets. There may also be opportunities to contribute to other research projects across the organisation.
The position is suitable to a graduate or entry-level candidate, or to a candidate with relevant skills who is looking to develop a new career in quantitative research. For this role we are offering an annual salary of £32,000-£38,000, depending on their experience and skills. We also offer:
- 30 days annual leave (with additional leave for bank holidays and the period of closure between Christmas and New Year).
- 8-10% employer pension contributions.
- The opportunity to work flexibly, including part-time, or on secondment.
- Cycle-to-work and season travel ticket schemes.
We welcome applications from all under-represented communities and groups. As part of our commitment to increasing diversity within both our own workforce and the policy-making sector in general, we offer pre-application discussions to all candidates, including Minority Ethnic candidates and all candidates with disabilities, who would like to speak to someone about the role in advance. Please contact info@epi.org.uk for more details.
Requirements
- Excellent quantitative skills with knowledge, or potential to develop knowledge, across a range of statistical and/or econometric techniques. You will have either completed a strong numerate degree or be able to demonstrate equivalent relevant experience.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, as well as being an enthusiastic team player who is keen to help build a small but growing research institute.
- Strong motivation for learning and self-development, particularly for mastering new software, programming languages and other technical skills.
- Experience using data analysis software and platforms, such as R and Github, is highly desirable.
- Confident and professional communication skills, both for drafting reports and for getting out and explaining the research to educators, policy-makers, and journalists.
- Knowledge of the education system in England is desirable but not essential.
The Location
EPI is based in central London, on Buckingham Palace Road. Our offices are very well connected, situated just five minutes away from Victoria Station.
We have a hybrid working environment with the option to work remotely two days a week.
Why Should You Apply?
- The opportunity to work in one of the most influential education research institutes in the UK.
- Contribute to work that supports fairer education outcomes for vulnerable groups of young people
- Competitive pay, with generous holidays and benefits.
- Flexible working hours.
- Opportunities for professional development and working within a highly motivated team.
How to Apply
To apply please complete our application form using the following link: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/OKXJOH/
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a two-stage interview process.
The Education Policy Institute recognises and wants to meet fully the aims and commitments set out in its equality policy. This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010, and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce in encouraging equality and diversity. We need your help and co-operation to do this, by filling out a short questionnaire at the end of the job application form. This questionnaire is entirely voluntary. Any information you do provide will stay confidential and will be stored securely. Only those monitoring job advertising and staff movement will have access to the data. Staff involved in sifting and interviewing for the post will not see your questionnaire. If you do not wish to complete the questionnaire, please click through the pages without submitting answers to reach the end of the application form.
Applications close at 17:00pm on Thursday 28th August 2025.